The new government office in Sambalpur is not accessible to my wheelchair, can I complain under the state accessible buildings law?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Yes, you can file a complaint regarding the inaccessibility of the new government office in Sambalpur under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the relevant provisions of state accessibility laws.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act) mandates that all public buildings, including government offices, must be accessible to persons with disabilities. Specifically, Section 40 of the RPWD Act emphasizes that it is the duty of the government to ensure that all public buildings are accessible. If a building does not comply with these accessibility requirements, you have the right to raise your concerns.

Here are the steps you can take to file a complaint:

• Document the Issue: Take photographs and write down specific details about the accessibility problems you encountered, such as stairs without ramps, inadequate signage, or lack of accessible restrooms.
• Research Local Accessibility Laws: Check if Sambalpur or Odisha has any specific state laws or guidelines regarding accessible buildings, which may supplement the RPWD Act.
• Contact Authorities: Reach out to the local government office, such as the Municipal Corporation of Sambalpur, to report the issue. Provide them with the documentation and details of your complaint.
• File a Formal Complaint: If your concerns are not addressed, you can file a formal complaint with the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, as established under Section 84 of the RPWD Act.
• Engage with NGOs: Consider contacting organizations that advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. They can provide support and may assist in addressing the issue more effectively.
• Legal Action: If necessary, you can explore legal recourse by filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, seeking enforcement of your rights and demanding accessibility compliance.

It is essential to act promptly and ensure that your voice is heard, as accessibility is a fundamental right under the Constitution of India, ensuring equality and non-discrimination for persons with disabilities.